The St. Louis County Police Department has released new details and body camera footage related to a fatal police shooting in Overland, confirming that the man involved did not fire any shots during the incident.
Bodycam Footage Released in Critical Incident
Authorities published a Critical Incident Briefing video showing multiple angles of the February 20 standoff, which resulted in the death of 71-year-old Robert Lewis.
According to police, a Woodson Terrace officer fired the shots that killed Lewis. No other gunfire occurred during the confrontation.
Incident Began with Assault Report
The situation unfolded around 2:45 a.m. at a residence on the 9400 block of Cote Brilliante Avenue, after an individual flagged down an Overland officer and reported being assaulted by a roommate.
When officers arrived, they encountered Lewis outside the home with weapons. He then retreated inside and began breaking windows at the rear of the house.
Armed Standoff Inside Home
Police say Lewis was armed with both a handgun and a knife. Officers were heard repeatedly ordering him to drop the weapons before shots were fired from outside the residence.
After entering the home, officers recovered both weapons near where Lewis was found.
Confusion Over Gunfire Clarified
Initial reports on the day of the incident included conflicting accounts about whether Lewis had fired at officers. Overland Police Chief Andy Mackey initially suggested shots were fired, while county investigators expressed uncertainty.
The newly released footage and investigation now confirm that Lewis did not discharge a firearm during the encounter.
Officer Involved
The officer who fired the fatal shots is described as a 30-year-old Woodson Terrace police officer with seven years of experience in law enforcement.
Investigation Continues
Officials are still working to determine whether Lewis died solely from police gunfire or if a self-inflicted gunshot wound may have also played a role.
The release of the footage is part of an ongoing effort to provide transparency as the investigation continues.